Thinley Namgay
Cannabis is generally considered harmful. However, experts believe it is time for the country to explore how to balance cannabis control with opportunities for economic development.
This was one of the key highlights of the recent international conference on GNH and Law held in Paro recently.
According to research conducted by Professor Jay Wexler of Boston University School of Law and Sonam Tshering, associate professor at the JSW School of Law, titled “Cannabis Policy in Bhutan: Examining Cannabis Regulation through GNH”, decriminalising cannabis could create jobs through the cannabis industry and generate revenue through taxation.
In addition to balancing control and opportunity, the research advocates aligning cannabis policy with GNH values, expanding cannabis-related medical research, and exploring export opportunities.
The research also suggested that decriminalisation of cannabis could reduce the costs of criminal justice for the country.
The study highlighted Bhutan’s abundant cannabis resources and their significant economic potential. Today, the country’s primary cause of mortality is alcohol consumption, and not cannabis.
In 2023, out of 354 drug trafficking cases, cannabis accounted for 32 cases. In 2022, 36 cannabis-related cases were reported out of 150, while 2021 recorded 21 cases out of 75. Prescription drugs, however, remain the primary driver of drug-related issues in the country.
The NDPSSA Act 2015 governs cannabis control in Bhutan, classifying it as a Schedule I drug. The country enforces a zero-tolerance approach, with penalties determined by the quantity of cannabis possessed. Exceptions are made for specific purposes such as research, fiber and oil extraction, and animal fodder.
As per current cannabis regulations, possession of 50g of cannabis, 7g of hashish, 3ml of hashish oil, or 5 cannabis plants is considered trafficking. Possession below these thresholds is classified as a misdemeanor.
Cannabis is known for its potential to reduce chronic pain, nausea, and symptoms of multiple sclerosis, among other conditions. It also has the potential to reduce dependency on alcohol, opioids, and other substances. However, it carries risks of physical and mental health issues, impairment, and addiction.
Globally, cannabis has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and personal purposes. However, many countries began criminalising cannabis in the 1900s.
Decriminalisation efforts began in the 1970s, and by the early 2000s, many countries had removed criminal penalties for cannabis possession, imposing only civil sanctions. Medical cannabis is now legal in more than 20 European countries and several other nations.
Currently, a four-acre marijuana plantation is being developed at Chumpathang, between Norbugang and Ugyentse gewogs in Samtse. This farm is owned by Bhutan Nutraceutical, a private company. The objective of the farm is to conduct research and develop cannabis products with cabinet approval.
However, people question why only a few people are permitted to engage in the cannabis business, suggesting that rural citizens should also be allowed to participate in this economic opportunity.